In coaching we use the 'pain vs pleasure' model to create a compelling reason why it is better to make change than to remain stuck in your current circumstances. When we fully asses the cost of staying the same vs the benefits of changing, it is then that we can make a decision on the best path for us to take.

Answer the following questions in relation to where you are now in a part of your life or a specific situation (e.g. career / business, relationships, health, finances):

What is this choice costing you now?

What will it cost you if things stay the same in a year, five years or 10 years?

What are you missing out on?

What is it costing those around you?

How is this choice benefiting you? (everything we do is because there is some pay-off. Even if that pay-off doesn’t appear rational or obvious at first)

What do you like about this choice?

What don’t you like about this choice?

Now think about your goals and dreams of where you’d like to be in this area of your life or situation and answer the following questions:

If you were to do this differently, how would you feel?

If you could change this and get great results, what would that be like?

How could you turn this around?

What’s the most important reason for changing this?

What will this change give you?

What will you no longer tolerate?

What would it give other people?

Looking at both sets of answers on the ‘pain’ of staying the same and the ‘pleasure’ of having the change consider which option you want to take.

It is normal for us to be apprehensive of change. It’s a human survival mechanism - if nothing changes then it can feel ‘safer’, but at what cost? Whenever you are deciding to make change ask yourself these two questions - “What is the worst that could happen? and “Can I handle it if it did?” If the answer is yes, then go for it!

If you're feeling stuck at a fork in the road, not sure which path to take or want to make change in your life but previous attempts haven't worked get in contact to find out more or for a complimentary initial coaching session.